Hartlepool United and newly-promoted Hornchurch will meet for the first time in the clubs’ histories tomorrow at Victoria Park in the Enterprise National League (3pm KO).

The Opposition:

Hornchurch are enjoying their first-ever campaign in the fifth tier of English football, currently sitting in ninth position on 21 points.

The Urchins secured a historic promotion last season, as they defeated Torquay United 3-2 after extra time in the National League South play-off final.

Last time out, the Essex side qualified for the FA Cup first round proper with a 4-0 away victory over Step 3 outfit Uxbridge.

In the league, Daryl McMahon’s side have won three of their last five matches, most-recently beating Eastleigh 2-0 at home. Defender Joseph Kizzi is the club’s top scorer on three goals.

Club Information:

Nickname: The Urchins
Founded: 1881 (145 years ago)
Ground: Hornchurch Stadium (Capacity – 3,000)
Chairman: Alex Sharp
Last season: National League South (2nd of 24 – promoted via play-offs)

Pools:

Pools exited the FA Cup following a 2-0 defeat against Marine last weekend, with Jack Doyle and James Potter on the scoresheet for the visitors. 

Pete Wild’s side will hope to make it back-to-back victories in the Enterprise National League, after a 4-2 away win over Forest Green Rovers ended Pools’ six-game losing streak.

Team news:

Max Kouogun and Max Merrick are both available for selection following lengthy spells on the sidelines, alongside the returning Liam Gibson and Luke Charman.

Kian Foreman is also available, having returned to the Club following a loan spell at Hebburn Town.

Campbell Darcy has gone in the opposite direction, joining the Hornets on loan after being recalled from a spell at Spennymoor Town earlier this month. 

Corey McKeown, Jay Benn, Owen Hampson and Cameron John continue to recover from their respective injuries, while Jack Earing and Charlie Thornton are doubts for the matchday squad.